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First Church of the Nazarene
Jesus the Stranger - week 1
💔 Have you ever felt unseen? Misunderstood? Rejected? Jesus knows that pain. He lived it. He was a stranger in His own land. He was mocked, abandoned, and betrayed. He was acquainted with grief. And yet—through His suffering, He became our greatest hope. As we journey toward the cross this Lent, join us for “Jesus the Stranger”—a fresh lens on Christ’s humanity, His rejection, and His holy love that heals. 📖 “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief…” – Isaiah 53:3 Come and see Jesus—our Savior, our healer, our hope.
Locations & Times
First Church of the Nazarene, Gallipolis
1110 1st Ave, Gallipolis, OH 45631, USA
Sunday 10:30 AM
Connection Card
I'm New / Looking for More Information You might be wondering, what's it really like at First Church? Simply stated, we're all about Jesus and what He has done in our life. You won't experience shame, guilt, or condemnation. We don't care how you dress or what candidate you voted for in the last election. Our church is made up of imperfect people with every kind of story imaginable. Do you want to know the best part? No matter what you've been through or what questions you might have about God and faith, our church is a place where you'll find the love, grace, and forgiveness Jesus gives to everyone. If you're new to First Church or seeking more information about an event, small group, or ministry, follow the link to fill out a short form and we'll reach out to you this week. NOTE: We value your privacy and would never spam you.
https://tinyurl.com/3hzybjzfGiving to First Church has never been easier
We thank you for being part of First Church of the Nazarene. Your gift makes ministry possible through our congregation. Our aim as a church is currently to give away no less than 15% of our income to others, to save 5% of our income preparing for the future, and living from 80% of our income to provide local ministry. Join us as we work together for future ministry through First Church of the Nazarene to Gallipolis, surrounding areas that include in Ohio and West Virginia, and throughout the world.
https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/6717651
What’s Worth More Than $139 Million? The Answer Will Surprise You
Talk It Over questions for personal reflection, family or small group.
1. Can you think of something that seemed small or hidden at first but turned out to be incredibly valuable? (A discovery, a relationship, a lesson learned?)
2. Read Luke 2:34b, 1 Peter 2:8, and Ephesians 2:20. How can Jesus be both a stumbling block and a cornerstone at the same time? How have you personally experienced Jesus in either of these roles?
3. Luke 2:32 calls Jesus a light to the Gentiles. Compare this to John 1:9 (“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world”). What does this mean for the way we share the gospel?
4. In Matthew 13:44-46, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to hidden treasure and a priceless pearl. What does it mean to “sell everything” for the sake of following Jesus? How does this compare to Simeon’s reaction in Luke 2:25-35?
5. Jesus often disrupted people’s expectations—some welcomed Him, while others rejected Him. What are ways that Jesus still challenges or disrupts people’s lives today? What has been the biggest challenge in your faith journey—accepting Jesus as the cornerstone or overcoming Him as a stumbling block?
6. What is one area of your life where Jesus is calling you to step out of darkness and into His light this week?
7. Who in your life might still see Jesus as a stumbling block? How can you help them see Him as the cornerstone instead?
8. This week, how can you be a light in your community as Jesus was to the Gentiles? (Consider serving, encouraging someone, or sharing your faith.)
ACTION STEPS:
a. Pray daily this week: “Lord, help me to see You as my cornerstone and not let anything cause me to stumble.”
b. Memorize Matthew 13:44 – Meditate on what it means to truly treasure Jesus.
c. Share your faith – Find a moment to tell someone about how Jesus has transformed your life.
2. Read Luke 2:34b, 1 Peter 2:8, and Ephesians 2:20. How can Jesus be both a stumbling block and a cornerstone at the same time? How have you personally experienced Jesus in either of these roles?
3. Luke 2:32 calls Jesus a light to the Gentiles. Compare this to John 1:9 (“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world”). What does this mean for the way we share the gospel?
4. In Matthew 13:44-46, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to hidden treasure and a priceless pearl. What does it mean to “sell everything” for the sake of following Jesus? How does this compare to Simeon’s reaction in Luke 2:25-35?
5. Jesus often disrupted people’s expectations—some welcomed Him, while others rejected Him. What are ways that Jesus still challenges or disrupts people’s lives today? What has been the biggest challenge in your faith journey—accepting Jesus as the cornerstone or overcoming Him as a stumbling block?
6. What is one area of your life where Jesus is calling you to step out of darkness and into His light this week?
7. Who in your life might still see Jesus as a stumbling block? How can you help them see Him as the cornerstone instead?
8. This week, how can you be a light in your community as Jesus was to the Gentiles? (Consider serving, encouraging someone, or sharing your faith.)
ACTION STEPS:
a. Pray daily this week: “Lord, help me to see You as my cornerstone and not let anything cause me to stumble.”
b. Memorize Matthew 13:44 – Meditate on what it means to truly treasure Jesus.
c. Share your faith – Find a moment to tell someone about how Jesus has transformed your life.
Daily readings beyond the scripture readings are available in this book by Kenneth J Collins. Pick up your copy or order through your favorite e-reader and follow along in the journey or pick up a copy of the Lenten bookmark with dates and readings through Easter..
Daily Reading Guide & Reflections
1) Be still for a minute in God’s presence.
2) Record what God draws to your attention.
3) Each day, write your reflection in a journal: What is God drawing your attention to in the readings? Write down a word or phrase that stands out.
4) On Saturday, how have you seen God at work over this week? Write down your reflections in a journal.
□ 3/10 READ Day 5 – Mathew 4:1-11
□ 3/11 READ Day 6 – Mark 6:1-6a
□ 3/12 READ Day 7 – Mark 3:20-21; 31-35
□ 3/13 READ Day 8 – Mark 3:22-30
â–ˇ 3/13 Lenten Luncheon Grace Methodist
□ 3/14 Read Day 9 – John 9:13-34
□ 3/15 READ Day 10 – Mark: 2:1-12
1) Be still for a minute in God’s presence.
2) Record what God draws to your attention.
3) Each day, write your reflection in a journal: What is God drawing your attention to in the readings? Write down a word or phrase that stands out.
4) On Saturday, how have you seen God at work over this week? Write down your reflections in a journal.
□ 3/10 READ Day 5 – Mathew 4:1-11
□ 3/11 READ Day 6 – Mark 6:1-6a
□ 3/12 READ Day 7 – Mark 3:20-21; 31-35
□ 3/13 READ Day 8 – Mark 3:22-30
â–ˇ 3/13 Lenten Luncheon Grace Methodist
□ 3/14 Read Day 9 – John 9:13-34
□ 3/15 READ Day 10 – Mark: 2:1-12
This Week's Info
We Welcome You to Our Worship Service Today!
Out of all the places you could choose to worship, we are honored that you chose to worship with us. Please fill out a guest card so we can follow up to thank you for your visit.
Children are part of our regular morning worship service, and no nursery staff are scheduled. Please pick up a children/youth worship bulletin in the lobby and return crayons or colored pencils following the worship service.
This Week March 9– 15
Sun. 9:30 AM Small Groups
- Infants (Nursery)
- Ages 4 – 3rd Grade (Downstairs)
- Adults: Heavenbound (FLC)
- Adults: Faithful Followers (Chapel)
10:15 AM Prayer around the Altar
10:30 AM Worship
6:00 – 7:30 PM Youth Open Gym (Grd. 6-12)
Wed. 9:00 AM Food Pantry Delivery
6:30 PM Choir Practice
6:30 PM Prayer & Praise (FLC)
Thurs. 10 AM – 12 PM Food Pantry
12:00 PM Lenten Service & Lunch (GM)
Coming Up
March 17 Zone Missions Rally at Rutland
March 21-22 SCO Youth District BLAST
March 29 Youth Yard Sale
April 12 SCO Missions & Youth Convention at Circleville
April 27-28 SCO District Assembly at Grove City
June 6-13 SCO Camp Meeting at Hocking Hills
Thank You: Thank you for your generous contributions and service at the Lenten Luncheon at Grace Methodist. We are pleased to share that the lunch donations, which will support our Food Pantry, totaled $565. Your support is truly appreciated!
Food Pantry Delivery: We could really use some help unloading and putting away food for our Food Pantry this Wednesday, March 12, from 9-10 AM. If you're available, your assistance would be greatly appreciated!
Lenten Services: We will join with area churches at Grace Methodist Church in Gallipolis on Thursdays for a service at noon and a luncheon to follow.
Zone Missions Rally: Churches from the Gallia-Meigs region will meet at Rutland Church of the Nazarene on Monday, March 17 at 7:00 PM to hear missionary Cezi Glendenning share about God’s work in Central Europe. Please bring a dessert to share for fellowship after the presentation.
BLAST: Youth Building Leaders and Sharing Talents encourages students in grades 6-12 to use their talents and leadership skills for Jesus Christ. Students can compete in areas of mathematics, chess, running, table tennis, volleyball, basketball, photography, videography, painting, drawing, crafts, prose, poetry, human video, puppets, drama, preaching, vocal solos, duets, ensembles, and instrumental solos or ensembles. Competitions will be held Friday and Saturday, March 21 and 22 at Heritage Church of the Nazarene in Circleville, OH. Students who would like to participate or attend BLAST should contact Sandi Plantz by today, March 9.
Yard Sale: Please start saving items for the youth yard sale on Saturday, March 29. Donations can be brought to the FLC starting March 16. We cannot accept early donations due to other organizations renting our facility. Pick up a flyer in the lobby for more details. Thank you for your cooperation.
Out of all the places you could choose to worship, we are honored that you chose to worship with us. Please fill out a guest card so we can follow up to thank you for your visit.
Children are part of our regular morning worship service, and no nursery staff are scheduled. Please pick up a children/youth worship bulletin in the lobby and return crayons or colored pencils following the worship service.
This Week March 9– 15
Sun. 9:30 AM Small Groups
- Infants (Nursery)
- Ages 4 – 3rd Grade (Downstairs)
- Adults: Heavenbound (FLC)
- Adults: Faithful Followers (Chapel)
10:15 AM Prayer around the Altar
10:30 AM Worship
6:00 – 7:30 PM Youth Open Gym (Grd. 6-12)
Wed. 9:00 AM Food Pantry Delivery
6:30 PM Choir Practice
6:30 PM Prayer & Praise (FLC)
Thurs. 10 AM – 12 PM Food Pantry
12:00 PM Lenten Service & Lunch (GM)
Coming Up
March 17 Zone Missions Rally at Rutland
March 21-22 SCO Youth District BLAST
March 29 Youth Yard Sale
April 12 SCO Missions & Youth Convention at Circleville
April 27-28 SCO District Assembly at Grove City
June 6-13 SCO Camp Meeting at Hocking Hills
Thank You: Thank you for your generous contributions and service at the Lenten Luncheon at Grace Methodist. We are pleased to share that the lunch donations, which will support our Food Pantry, totaled $565. Your support is truly appreciated!
Food Pantry Delivery: We could really use some help unloading and putting away food for our Food Pantry this Wednesday, March 12, from 9-10 AM. If you're available, your assistance would be greatly appreciated!
Lenten Services: We will join with area churches at Grace Methodist Church in Gallipolis on Thursdays for a service at noon and a luncheon to follow.
Zone Missions Rally: Churches from the Gallia-Meigs region will meet at Rutland Church of the Nazarene on Monday, March 17 at 7:00 PM to hear missionary Cezi Glendenning share about God’s work in Central Europe. Please bring a dessert to share for fellowship after the presentation.
BLAST: Youth Building Leaders and Sharing Talents encourages students in grades 6-12 to use their talents and leadership skills for Jesus Christ. Students can compete in areas of mathematics, chess, running, table tennis, volleyball, basketball, photography, videography, painting, drawing, crafts, prose, poetry, human video, puppets, drama, preaching, vocal solos, duets, ensembles, and instrumental solos or ensembles. Competitions will be held Friday and Saturday, March 21 and 22 at Heritage Church of the Nazarene in Circleville, OH. Students who would like to participate or attend BLAST should contact Sandi Plantz by today, March 9.
Yard Sale: Please start saving items for the youth yard sale on Saturday, March 29. Donations can be brought to the FLC starting March 16. We cannot accept early donations due to other organizations renting our facility. Pick up a flyer in the lobby for more details. Thank you for your cooperation.
The Discipleship Place
The Discipleship Place includes the website, courses, and interactive version of the How to Study the Bible course provided by the Church of the Nazarene Discipleship International. Interactive Course: How to Study the Bible. People will find this new format engaging, fun, and interactive, redesigned with game elements and a visually appealing look. Get started now by clicking here. Discipleship and Mental Disorders. Key questions about mental disorders and the church community will be addressed, along with several “skills videos” to help those who may struggle with a mental disorder. Small Group Discipleship. These teaching videos feature Rev. Michael Downs providing a video series where key discipleship principles are discussed, followed by a demonstration of how these principles can be practiced in a small group setting.
https://discipleshipplace.org/I'm Passionate About Evangelism
Our Purpose: Our prayer is that every Nazarene would lead one person to faith every year. Jesus commissioned us to “go and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:18-20) Jesus offers to give each of us the opportunity to join Him in the amazing journey of disciple making! And He gave an incredible promise to those who are willing to go! He said, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” We do not go alone. The One who has all authority in heaven and on earth promised to go with us wherever we go! Join us on the greatest adventure of a lifetime: the journey of disciple-making! Helpful definitions:Evangelism - Engaging in the lives of pre-Christians with the purpose, goal, and intent of leading them to faith in Christ as the first step in their journey of following Christ. Disciple – Christ follower Disciple-Making - The process of leading pre-Christians to faith, Christlikeness, and multiplying disciple-makers. Prevenient Grace - The grace that goes beforehand preparing the way for disciple makers to engage pre-Christians in evangelistic outreach and conversations. Micro-mission - My personal mission and goals to lead pre-Christians to make the decision to become a disciple of Jesus. Macro-mission - My personal mission and goals for involvement in church planting.
https://usacanadaregion.org/evangelism-revivalismHow to Be a Disciplemaker
Do you want help in making disciples of Jesus? Jesus’ intends that all His followers be discipled by His Word, Spirit, and Body. The following dialogue between Hal and Debbi Perkins is intended to guide you in the “what” of making disciples using the Discipled by Jesus (DBJ) model. But there is more. The videos listed below seek to clearly identify the “why” – not merely the what – behind each component of the DBJ model for making disciples of Jesus. Please note that the disciplemaker who only knows and does the “what” without comprehending the “why” will normally miss the key essentials of Jesus’ discipling us using the Discipled by Jesus process. We pray you will be helped to be a far more effective disciplemaker through the series of dialogues between Hal and Debbi below.
https://discipledbyjesus.org/how-to-be-a-disciplemaker/RightNow Media
We believe the mission of the church matters. And we’ve seen how God can change lives through video resources. That’s why we developed RightNow Media. Now, every person in your church can access over 25,000 biblically-based videos for small groups, families, students, leadership development, and much more. We hope to help you equip and disciple the people of your church.
Every person in your church can access biblically-based videos on topics like marriage, parenting, youth, recovery, leadership, finances and much more. Follow the link to begin digging deeper to develop Christlikeness using the Rightnow Media resources.
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/join/gallipolisnaz